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US lawmaker summons FIFA President Gianni Infantino over alleged bribery concerns

U.S. host cities warn that the 2026 World Cup faces "catastrophic" security failures as $900 million in federal funding remains frozen.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has been asked to appear before the US House Judiciary Committee after senior Democratic Congressman Jamie Raskin accused FIFA of cultivating an overly close relationship with the Trump administration and raised concerns over possible corruption.

In a letter sent to Infantino, Raskin requested documents and communications relating to anything of value allegedly provided by FIFA to former President Donald Trump, members of his administration, their families, or affiliated organizations, including the Trump Organization.

The lawmaker also requested records concerning FIFA’s World Cup ticketing practices, including dynamic pricing, consumer complaints, third-party ticket sales, and pricing mechanisms. In addition, FIFA was instructed to preserve all communications between its officials and Trump administration representatives across platforms such as Signal, Telegram, WhatsApp, X, and Truth Social.

The request follows mounting criticism of FIFA’s governance during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Critics questioned Infantino’s close relationship with Trump, controversial ticket pricing policies, tournament scheduling, and several sporting and commercial decisions made throughout the competition.

Raskin’s letter also revisits the legacy of the 2015 FIFA corruption scandal, arguing that FIFA’s recent actions raise fresh concerns about governance and transparency. He questioned the organization’s decision to establish offices in Trump Tower and suggested the relationship could create the appearance of improper influence.

The congressman further criticized FIFA’s use of dynamic ticket pricing, claiming the system may have harmed consumers by significantly increasing prices and allowing seat relocations after purchase. Authorities in New York and New Jersey have already launched investigations into FIFA’s ticketing practices.

Infantino has been asked to schedule a transcribed interview with the House Judiciary Committee by August 9. While Republicans currently control the committee, Raskin noted that congressional oversight could expand if political control changes after the upcoming midterm elections.

The latest scrutiny adds to several ongoing legal and political challenges facing Infantino, including previous investigations in Switzerland, legal action brought by former UEFA president Michel Platini in France, and complaints from European lawmakers regarding FIFA’s political neutrality. The issue also comes as FIFA continues preparations for future major tournaments, including the 2031 FIFA Women’s World Cup.